Senator Loren Legarda lauded the Senate’s approval of Senate Bill No. 2838, or the Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers, on its third and final reading, marking a historic milestone in recognizing the dedication and sacrifices of Barangay Health Workers (BHWs).
“For decades, our Barangay Health Workers have been the silent guardians of our communities, ensuring no one is left behind in healthcare. They have served without complaint, without fanfare, and for far too long, without the recognition and support they deserve. Finally, we give the Barangay Health Workers the rights, protection, and recognition long denied to them,” Legarda said.
As the bill’s principal author and co-sponsor, the veteran legislator emphasized its significance in uplifting the welfare of BHWs, acknowledging their sacrifices, and securing their rightful benefits as essential pillars of the country’s healthcare system.
“Those who care for our people must also be cared for.”
“As early as 1998, during my first term as a senator, I have pushed for this bill, believing that those who care for our people must also be cared for,” the seasoned lawmaker said.
The four-term Senator underscored the insufficient support mechanisms and inadequate funding, which hinder the effectiveness of BHWs and weaken the overall healthcare system.
“The ability of our barangay health workers to serve effectively depends on how much priority each LGU gives to health services and facilities. Without sufficient resources, we are failing both our health workers and the communities that rely on them,” she added.
The Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers seeks to address these gaps by professionalizing BHWs, ensuring they receive fair compensation, training, and inclusion in the government plantilla –a move that Legarda said is a necessary correction of a long-standing injustice.
The measure also grants BHWs incentives and benefits, including monthly honoraria, transportation and subsistence allowances, hazard pay, insurance coverage, health emergency allowances, a December cash gift, and a dedicated service recognition incentive.
“By providing these long-overdue benefits, we are finally giving them the reward they have long deserved.”
“By providing these long-overdue benefits, we are finally giving them the reward they have long deserved,” she added.
Legarda also shared the story of Melinda Brosas, a BHW whose dedication was highlighted by the World Health Organization (WHO). Brosas oversees 103 households in her “purok”, braving steep hills and crossing rivers with strong currents to provide healthcare services to those in need.
“Like many other BHWs, she does this without complaint. But they should never have had to do it without the support they rightfully deserve,” she said.
She also commended Senator JV Ejercito, the sponsor of the bill, for rallying support and ensuring its passage.
Legarda concluded by affirming the indispensable role of BHWs in achieving universal healthcare in the country.
